Instagram Comment-to-DM: How to Set It Up
Run the "comment a word, get the link" funnel on Instagram. A step-by-step guide to setting up comment-to-DM automation that captures leads on autopilot.
By The Tendrify Team · · 6 min read
"Comment GUIDE and I'll DM you the link" — you've seen it on a hundred reels because it works. It's called comment-to-DM: when someone comments your keyword, an automation slides into their DMs with the link, freebie, or next step. Here's how to set one up.
Why comment-to-DM works so well
- Comments boost the reel — Instagram rewards the engagement with more reach
- Every commenter becomes a DM conversation, not just a like
- The comment opens Instagram's 24-hour window, so you can legitimately DM them
- You can attach a lead form and turn the DM into an email you own
Set up a comment-to-DM automation
- 1Create a new flow with a Comment trigger.
- 2Choose the post or reel to watch — or select "all posts".
- 3Add your keyword (like GUIDE), or turn on "any keyword" to reply to every comment.
- 4Optionally add a public comment reply so others see you responded.
- 5Add the DM response — an opening message, buttons, or a lead form — and turn the status on.
Say the keyword out loud in the reel and pin a comment with it. The more people who comment the exact word, the more DMs — and the more the algorithm pushes your reel.
Turn old reels into lead machines
Your best evergreen reels keep getting views for months. Point an automation at them so new comments on old posts still trigger a DM — a steady stream of leads long after you hit publish.
Frequently asked questions
How do I DM everyone who comments on my Instagram post?
Create a comment-to-DM flow, select the post, and enable "any keyword" so every commenter gets an automatic DM. Add a cooldown to avoid messaging the same person twice.
Is comment-to-DM against Instagram's rules?
No — a comment is an interaction that opens the 24-hour messaging window, so replying by DM through the official API is allowed. Send the DM promptly while the window is open.
Can I collect emails from comment-to-DM?
Yes. Add a lead form to the DM response and Tendrify collects each person's email and name into your contacts, ready to export.
Automate your Instagram — free
Connect your Instagram in 60 seconds and set up your first comment-to-DM automation on the free plan.